"WILTON'S SILENCE”

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19986, 29 June 1920, Page 5

"WILTON'S SILENCE”

A ROMANCE OP WEST AFEICA. (By PAUL TRENT (Author of "The Vrow,” “ Tho Price of a Sou],"' etc.)

CHAPTER V. The landing of oven a Governor on tho coast of West Africa does not lend itself to 'dignity, even when there is a good surf. True, there is a carpet in tho bottom of tho boat, and a couple of Madeira chairs, but tho “boys” war? sit on each thwart with their paddles wear tho least possible clothing and they chant a topical verse which, if understood, is not always complimentary to tho subject. Moreover, the surf which separates the capital from the ship is a noted one. Indeed,, as Sylvia approached the first breaker, or rather as the breaker approached the boat, she held her breath and closed her eyes. A cry_ escaped her ns they rose and descended quickly, and (Sir John smiled encouragingly. _ “ I wasn’t a bit afraid,” Sylvia maintained stoutly. The final breaker reached them. The hoys paddled hard, singing fiercely as they did so. and they were carried quickly to tho shore on the crest of the wave. A grout) of men—the Colonial Secretary at the head, Carrnthers by name—was waiting to receive tho new Governor. Behind was drawn up a company of “ Waft's,” and. as the Governor set foot on African soil, “ God Save the King ” was rdnyed. j Sir John grasped Carrntbers* hand, and the two men looked at one another for a moment. The Governor with his quick intuition became aware that this was no new friend who greeted him. In fact, the Colonist Secretary considered himself as having been badly treated. Vain, and rather ixnnpous, he had convinced himself that the vacant governorship could he awarded to none other than himself, and his disappointment was keen. ‘'•'Sylvia, let me introduce Mr Carruthers to you.” Sir John said genially. The Colonial Secretary bowed, and his expression remained cold. It was had enough' that a Governor should bring his wife to the colony. In his opinion a daughter was an enormity. The formalities were quickly comnlctod. Sir John and Sylvia were helned into the car by Gifford, who had followed them closely in another boat I with his sister. | “ Isn’t Miss Gifford coming with | us?” 'Sylvia asked of her father. ' “ No. This is something of a- spec- | taoie to the natives, and they must be able to know who is the big white lady lat the Castle. That is you, my dear.” ! The black chauffeur in bis crimson 1 livery drove very slowly through the ; native town. There was no cheering, | but much shrill conversation. _ Little, j piccanes, quite naked, toddled in front of the swish-built houses. A raaremie ] would stop in the task of grinding foui fou, and look up at the passing car. £loon bungalow-town was reached, where resided the white officials. The Club with its iplayground of mud baked hard bv the sun, whore was played polo and cricket, was passed. “ It’s quite charming,” Sylvia cried in surprise. “ I’m glad von think so. Wait till yon get a bad ‘go ’ of fever. . but they certainly have improved the place,” he added thoughtftnll". The residence of tho Governor gleamed white in tho distance. It was an ancient building, erected by tho Dutch, j with thick walls and a wide verandah. Gifford, with his sister, had driven in ahead in a dogcart, and was waiting on the steps to receive them. Sylvia j hurried into the house, and was de- ■ lighted with tho lofty spacious rooms. I True, there was not much furniture, from the woman’s point of view, and j she congratulated herself on having j brought so many things with- her. 1 Grace joined her, and for a few raoI incuts made no remark.

“ So the queen has entered into her kingdom,” she said at last. “Isn’t it ripping?” “What?” “ Everything—the Castle—the natives ” “I think they are dirty pigs. The smells in the town were atrocious. There’s no privacy in the Castle. The bedrooms are barns. There are only tin baths, and 1 wish I were back in England.” ‘‘There is no reason why you shouldn’t go,” Sylvia said quietly. * Grace was surprised. She had not thought Sylvia capable of making such a remark. But. it was not her policy to be on bad terms with the Governor’s daughter. “Forgive me. I'm rather tiredami irritable,” she said hastily. _ “ Why not lie down till dinner time?” It has been rather an exhaust-j ing day.” ' ‘‘ I think T will take your advice. . . .1 don’t really dislike the place.” Sylvia, too, lay down to rest, but was nimble fo «Vrp.;. Sb-» bad no}, even caught a glimpse of Wilton that day, for ho not appeared at breakfast. Ever since their long talk on the deck at night he had seemed deliberately to avoid her; and she often wondered if unconsciously she could have done anvthing to offend him. Once or twice she had given him chances, which had been avoided with dexterity, and now her pride was in arms. The next few days were very busy ones. Sylvia, was engaged in putting those woman’s touches to the Castle that can turn a barracks - into a home; and she had little time for thought. A week passed before she paid her first visit to the club,- which wj s the centre of the social life. On the. following day there was to be an official garden party at the Castle, vnd Sir John thought it as well she should meet some of the women of the leading officials before that took place. When the car pulled up, the verandah of the club was crowded. All who were seated stood up at the approach of the Governor, and introductions were rapidly effected. A little later Sylvia found herself returning Wilton - s greeting. “ Como and talk to me,” she said peremptorily; and led the way to a seat. “ You haven't been to see us.” “I’ve signed my name in the book. One doesn't call at the Castle without a ‘ bid, - ' You forgot that you are an important lady now.” “I bid you come,” she answered lightly. “ I am calling on H.E. to-morrow? I have an appointment with H.E. In liset, I. am going to ask a favour of ■ him. _ Iwant to be sent back to my old district. - ' “I'm sure my father will do what is host. Mr Wilton, why did you avoid me during the last days on'the ship? I imagined we had ratified a friendship. Didn't you?” hllio gave him a quick look when lie remained silent. “Don't you want my friendship?'' she persisted. . He looked round for a means of escape, but found none. “ No,” he answered in desperation. “ Yon are very frank,” she said in a low, tense voice. “I will explain. Friendship with yon would be impossible.” She laughed from sheer delight, for she understood. Am 1 so dostes table?” she asked • lightly. . “ Aliss Lurgan, I’m not used to vor- ! bal fencing. I’m afraid I’ve been very rude.” “ I don’t think so. We won’t giro our relations a name. We’ll call ourselves—acquaintances, and let it go at that. I hope you will dine with ub —before you go into thi bush. I will see that yeti get a ‘lid.’” “ Thank you,” he /answered politely, i and she dismissed him nt once. I However. Wilton was not to get away so easily, for Grace came np io him. “ I ttiEiaic. sea tomeiliitig. edi.-the.

country. _ My brother is lending me one of his polo ponies, but he’s much too busy to take mo about. I know you than anyone else in the place. Will you take mo for a ride in the morning at half-past six?*' He longed to be able to plead an excuse, but there was none, for he had no work id do, and so he accepted the invitation. Grace flattered herself that she understood men, hut Wilton was a complete puzzle to her. This only added to his attraction, and she was more determined than ever to win his love. The two girls returned to the Castle together, and diming dir per Sylvia was thoughtful; but when the _ meal was over, she sought her father In his private room, where no one went without invitation. As she entered, he paused in lighting a cigar, and frowned at her. Against rules.” “ Yes—l know that. But I wanted a chat.” Phe sat down on the awn of his chair. ; and stroked back Cm hair from his forehead. As a child she had learnt that this was a carets he liked. I “Well—what is it?” he asked; abruptly. j “ A few hints as to mv behaviour at the garden party to-morrow.” she ; said demurely. I “You monkey! You’re pulling my] leg. You carried it off splendidly at the Club this afternoon.” “Thank you.” “But what do you really want to talk about?” “ Are you satisfied with the way I am running things? Arc the dinners! all right?” “ What do you want to talk about?” “ Nothing really. By the bv, I had a chat with Mr Wilton at the Club, is he going to stay here?” I bad thought of him as Colonial I Secretary. Carruthers is due home in a month or two, and luffs not coming back.” “ Splendid—-but what if Mr Wilton asks you to send him back to the hush. I suppose you would do what you think best for the Colony?” “I suppose, so.” “ Re would make a good Col. See.” “ None better.” “ Then you wouldn’t let him go to the bush.—if bo asked to go?” “No, I don’t think so,” he answered without thought. “Is that a promise?” she cried eagerly. And then he became suspicious. He remembered that she had admitted to there being “some man.” What il< that man were Wilton? In many ways she could not find a bettor man—but “ Is that a. promise?'’ “ Why do you wish him to stay here?” “.You say he : s the best man for the job. It’s your duty to choose the best man. Personal wishes should nob be taken into consideration.” “Not even yours?” he asked dryly. “ Anyhow, I think I can promise you Wilton shall have the job.” “Thanks, dad,” she cried, and kissed him affectionately. “ Now you can run away. But stay a moment. How are you getting on with Gifford? Any trouble?” “ No,” she answered' doubtfully. “Keep him at arm’s-length.'’ I’m not altogether satisfied with him as an A.B.C. I imagine the natives won’t like him. His manner is a trifle dictatorial. And Aliss Gifford has all tho men in the place at her feet. Yes, L can see trouble ahead.” “ I hope not. Grace is quite harmj less.” “ She’s in love with Wilton. Isn’t ] that so?” j “ She likes him,” Sylvia answered evasively. “ May I send Air Wilton a bid to dinner for to-morrow night?” “ Yes—ask any one you like. Wc shan’t often dine alone lor tho rest ol tho tour,” he answered with a sigh, , ! for official dinners bored him. 1 j _ Sylvia was quite satisfied with what | she had accomplished, and upon leavI ing her lather went to the room where tier piano had been placed, and began to sing. It was a- love-song she chose and in the middle of it Grace came in a malicious smile on her face. She seated herself on a couch, and listened while song succeeded song. “My clear, you arc in splcndk voice,” she remarked lazily, wher Sylvia turned round. “ I didn’t know you were there,” “ I’m going for a ride before break fast in the morning,” “ I’ll come with you.” “ Excellent—Air Wilton is takinf me. He knows the country so well.’" “ Air Wilton.” Sylvia repeated hj surprise. “ Yes—he invited mo to go—at tin Club to-night.” “Tpon thoughts I won’ iwme. Aly habit has not been un packed,” Sylvia said after a pause. “ Just as you like. Good nip-lit I’m dead tired.”

CHAPTER VI

Wilton did not enjoy his ride with Grace, hut hu. succeeded in making himself pleasant and returned to his bungalow -with a healthy appetite for early “chop.” He was staying with Sinclair—the chief of the Treasury- ■ who was a typical “ Coaster.” “ There is a rumour you arc going, to be appointed ‘ Col. Sec.’ when Carruthers gees homo,” Sinclair remarked questioningly. ‘‘l hope not. I want to go back to my district.” “lor my part T would rather yon stayed here. Wilton, haven’t you am ambition? A small governorship wih toliow. and you are a young man.” “ 1 believe I’m more suited to mv present work. I’m used to the soli tudo at *t!io ‘ bush,’ and 1 get on well with the natives.” “ Granted but you’ve all the quail ties for a Col. Sec.,” Sinclair answered good-humouredly. It was ten o’clock when Wilton reached Government House to keep his appointment with the Governor. lie was kept waiting for a couple of minCaptain Gilford joined him. *’ H.E. will be ready for yon in- a quai ter of an hour. An important cable lias arrived, which requires consideratiou. Have a. cigarette,” said Gilford, and 'held outTus case. ‘ Thanks.” ? It was good of you to take my sister lor a ride this morning. "Miss burgan is anxious to go. We might ma , a for to-morrow.” “Thanks, but I hope to be on the way to the bush.” Gifford looked at Wilton and laughed lightly. ° Perhaps Sir John will have something to say.about that.” Sir John’s room opensd ont on to the verandah. It was large and lofty and contained very little furniture. The table, large and workmanlike, was covered with official papers, which required i m media to a tto nt ion. But the Governor was not working, iiis head rested on his hands, and he was hi deep thought, but at last roused Inmsclf, and summoned Wilton. “ Good morning,” h 0 said briskly, and pointed to a chair. “ Good morning, sir.” A short silence followed, which was embarrassing to both of them. “ B ■ the by, I’ve just endorsed a recommendation of my predecessor, Aonr name is going • forward for a C.M.G. in recognition of your work in fh'3 district* I’ve been glancing through the papers. Ten years ago I formed a good opinion of you, anctol’m glad to find you have more than justified that opinion.” !< Thank you, sir. You laid the loundations of all 1 know. 1 have consistently followed on the lines you laid down, when .1 was working under yon.” “That is very gratifying to me* Wilton. Wljat I have said naturally leads up to what I'm going to say. I have come to the. conclusion we want new and vigorous blood at the Secretariat. In confidence 1 may tell you I’m very -■gjai f&uia, itgjutH... He

has gob into a rut, and me don’t think alike. _ Already there has been some Inetiou. ’ s Wilton smiled slightly, for ho mas amare of Carruthers's prejudice against bir John and the reason of it. ‘‘ I have chosen vou to take Carruthcrs’s place. We think alike, and reel sure me shall mork mcl! together. I,'*- appointment mill not bo announced till Carruthers goes homo, and it mill be well to keep it a secret. In the meantime you mill act as Assistant Colonial Secretary. I. would you go softly-softly, so long as lio'remains here. lake a holiday more or less. You understand mhat I meant” "Yes. sir. I’m awfuJiv nrateinl for the appointment, but, Sir John, 1 mould infinitely rather go hack to my district.’' Wilton said earnestly.

.I he Governor rose, and lighted a cigarette, then crossed the room and placed lr hand on "Wilton’s shoulders, looking cloven at him with affection. " j “ My dear fellow, don’t be an ass. I’m giving you the chance of a lifetime. Now, I’m not speaking officially. It will bo i)ie height of foolishness on your part to refuse the appointment. As Governor, I tell you I require yonf services. You arc far away the best man in the .service for the job. In choosing any one dso 1 should be failing in my duty.” “1 prefer my district," Wilton answered quietly but firmly. “ Unfortunately we officials can't, choose what we might prefer. It is your cbm* to do what you are told.’’ the Governor answered dryly. Wilton umaumd silent. “Com-, Wilton. Tell me what objection you have’ to the appointment. Is it that you object to work with me personally? Is it anything to do with what happened in the past?” ‘‘•No, sir,’’ Wilton answered after a pause. “It’s not that you feel I’m under a debt to von, and trving to discharge my debt by making this appointment ?” This time Wilton did not answer, and he turned away his eyes. “I insist'upon an'answer,” the Governor said sternly. “There may have been something of that in it. sir.” “’Then I give you my word of honour that I make the appointment solely upon vohr merits. Hasn’t it occurred to you. it might be more pleasant for me to have you at a distance? But wc will discuss the whole subject tonight. You are dining here, and afterwards wu will thrash out the whole wretched business. By doing so, my conscience will be easier, and we shall both feel more comfortable.” “ As von wish, sir.”

Just then Captain Gifford came in throw rr h the own window iVom tlie verandah and placed a paper before the Governor, who glanced at : t quick!v. i: I can’t, attend to that now,” ho said impatiently. The A.T>.C. retreated hv the ’.ray he had come, hut panted on the verandah. “ When I knew of my appointment hero.” Sir John went on to V,niton, “rnv first thought was c. f the past-—end vnn. It was the only blot to toy satisfaction. Rut we will talk it over tonight. There’s one matter I wi-h In discuss, somethin'/ that occurred in your district during vonr last tour.’* Gifford was satisfied that he would hear nothing more of interest hv remainin'/. hut he was determined not to miss a. word of what- mHit w -s between Wilton and Sir Jehu after dinner that night. Bv what had been already said he had leslrnt something. There certain!'’ was a mysterv. and it would seem rlmt mystery was to the discredit of Sir John.

(To be continued.)